22,589 people have submitted an application to become an astronaut with the European Space Agency (ESA). As reported, the ESA has advertised positions again after 13 years. The application period ran from March 31 to June 18. There are 464 Austrians among the all-aspirants. The numbers after the end of the application are not yet final, but clearly exceed those of the last application process in 2008, when 8,413 interested parties registered.
ESA General Director Josef Aschbacher, who comes from Tyrol, spoke of tough competition in Paris: “It is a dream job to be an astronaut.” The selection process consists of six stages. The new space crew should not be known until the end of next year. We are looking for four to six permanent astronauts and a “reserve” of up to 20 people.
The proportion of female applicants rose to around 24 percent, a good decade ago it was only around 15 percent. Applicants must have at least a master’s degree in natural sciences, engineering, mathematics or computer science. There are requirements for height, the age limit is 50 years.
Jane Stock is a technology author, who has written for 24 Hours World. She writes about the latest in technology news and trends, and is always on the lookout for new and innovative ways to improve his audience’s experience.
